From Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats which was based on T. S. Eliot’s ‘Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats’ to The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe which was most recently playing at the Gillian Lynne Theatre and was, of course, recreating C. S. Lewis’ classic tale live on stage, the world of literature has forever been a source of inspiration for theatre makers across the generations.
So why not celebrate World Book Day by booking a ticket to one of our literary-inspired shows for your favourite bibliophile (or even just yourself!). Here are our top ten book related shows (in no particular order)!
The Phantom of the Opera
Now playing at Her Majesty’s Theatre
It may be one of the world’s longest running musicals but were you aware that Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece is based on a French novel by Gaston Leroux – ‘Le Fantôme de l’Opéra’? Partly inspired by historical events at the Paris Opera the novel was first published, in novel form, in 1910. Voted as ‘The best west end show of all time’ in January 2020 the musical premiered in 1986 at Her Majesty’s Theatre and continues to play there 8 times a week to this day!
Matilda The Musical
Now playing at Cambridge Theatre
The multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company was inspired by the beloved book ‘Matilda’ by the incomparable Roald Dahl. The musical stays quite close to the original story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. A classic tale with a modern musical twist. Winner of over 100 international awards Matilda The Musical is great for audiences of all ages.
The Wizard of Oz
The London Palladium – from 23 June 2023
As many of you will know the original version of this classic tale was a children’s book entitled ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ by L. Frank Baum. But did you know the first musical adaptation of the familiar tale was not the ever-popular 1939 musical extravaganza starring Judy Garland? In fact a successful Broadway musical was premiered only two years after the book was published – much to the delight of its adoring fans. It seems we’ve been following that yellow brick road for over 120 years- and this summer the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s adaptation returns to The London Palladium and the wonderful world of LW Theatres.
Frozen
Now playing at Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Of course this uber-cool smash-hit musical is based on the hit 2013 Disney film but did you know that the film was actually inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale ‘The Snow Queen’? The film and musical ended up quite different to Andersen’s original tale but the common thread of love and friendship can still be seen in both stories. Don’t miss catching this magical show live on stage at Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
The Lehman Trilogy
Now playing at Gillian Lynne Theatre
Unlike the other shows in our list The Lehman Trilogy actually started its life as a three-act play written by Italian novelist and playwright Stefano Massini in 2013 before Massini developed into a novel in 2016. The play was later translated into English and adapted by Ben Power for the original National Theatre production in 2018. The five-star must-see play has recently opened for a third London run – this time at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.
Chris Hadfield
Cambridge Theatre – Monday 19 June 2023
Theatre Royal Drury Lane – Tuesday 20 June 2023
Join Canadian astronaut and ex-commander of the International Space Station, Chris Hadfield, for a mind-expanding evening of exploration, imagery, stories, and music. What does this new age of space travel mean, and what can it bring to life on Earth? For these unique live events, Chris will share unheard tales of space voyages and human exploration for all ages, as seen through the eyes of an astronaut. Tickets include a signed hardback copy of ‘The Apollo Murders’ by Chris Hadfield!
Quentin Tarantino
The London Palladium – Saturday 25 & Sunday 26 March 2023
Spend a memorable evening with Academy Award-winning filmmaker, #1 New York Times bestselling author, and passionate movie-lover, Quentin Tarantino, as he celebrates the publication of his long-awaited non-fiction debut, Cinema Speculation. Perfect for the film lover in your life. Tickets include a copy of Cinema Speculation.
Miriam Margolyes: Oh Miriam! Live
The London Palladium – Tuesday 19 September 2023
Theatre Royal Drury Lane – Monday 23 October 2023
Miriam Margolyes, marks the launch of her new book in her biggest tour yet!
“My new book is called OH MIRIAM! – something that has been said to me a lot over the years (often in tones of strong disapproval) – and it contains lots more revelations and stories and discoveries and I can’t wait to share it with you all”.
Bring your favourite bookworm to experience another unforgettable adventure through the extraordinary life and strong opinions of Miriam Margolyes. Tickets include a hardback copy of Oh Miriam!.
An Evening with Bob Odenkirk
The London Palladium – Sunday 23 April 2023
Join Emmy-winning writer and Golden Globe-nominated actor, comedian, and director Bob Odenkirk as he recounts the twists and turns of his comedy career live on stage. Featuring humorous tangents, wild characters, and Bob’s trademark unflinching drive and humour, don’t miss the opportunity to spend an entertaining evening with the beloved star and comic maverick. Tickets include a paperback copy of Comedy, Comedy, Comedy, Drama by Bob Odenkirk.
Garth Marenghi
The London Palladium – Saturday 8 April 2023
Garth Marenghi is widely regarded as horror literature’s greatest living author. This year he returns from the darkness (figurative darkness – he’s not a spelunker) with a rare public appearance to mark the release of his long-lost multi-volume horror epic TerrorTome. If you loved Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace this is the show for you!
